By Pepper Basham
Published by: Thomas Nelson Fiction
Publication Date: November 3, 2026
Description from the publisher:
Thomas Bridges, the new rector of St. Groves, has a simple plan: gain the support of local wealthy parishioners to finance a boarding school for the orphans of St. Groves. With his stellar reputation and good heart, everything seems to be working well, even if he has to avoid his mother's matchmaking with the eligible ladies of the town. But his plans are rerouted when the "lost" sister of Lord Ravenscross returns and she happens to be the same woman in which he shared a secret and unexpected kiss eight months before.
Arianna Reeves has returned home a secret heiress, trying to redeem her past. With money to spare, a desire to earn back the favor of those she loves, and a hope of being useful she not only puts herself in harm's way to help the children of St. Groves but creates an "anonymous benefactress" to support Thomas Bridges' plan. However, their mutual attraction threatens to not only defrock Thomas but also ruin all their best-laid plans for the children. When a man from Arianna's past comes to St. Groves with a plan to expose Thomas and Arianna's secret, their characters and hearts are tested. Could the truth about one unexpected kiss ruin their futures? After all . . . it was just a kiss, right?
My Review:
It’s probably cruel of me to review this now since it doesn't come out for three months—and that is way too long to wait for a book this absolutely delightful! Thomas is earnestly good and lovable, while Arianna is strong, determined, and deeply compassionate. Their banter is incredibly fun, and the romance is just plain cute. I loved how sweet, funny, and deeply respectful their connection felt, making their happily-ever-after so satisfying to watch unfold. The Pride and Prejudice connection was admittedly a bit weak, so skip this if you are only here for a strict retelling. But if you want a story that is utterly enchanting from start to finish, add this to your TBR list right now!
5 stars!
I read a DRC provided by the publisher via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
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